Archive for the ‘This & That’ Category

There are few spice blends that I use more than Pumpkin Pie. It’s so good in everything – from my Pumpkin Protein Shake, to Greek-style yogurt, cheesecake, quick breads, spice cookies, sprinkled on oatmeal…the list goes on and on.

The one that you can buy is good in a pinch…but nothing beats the hand-picked cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, high-quality ginger and all the LOVE that goes into making your own!

I know there are higher-end places you can buy spices, but I love Penzey’s. They are super fresh and affordable, and have a big variety.

Making your own blend means you can choose the flavors you love to dominate, add just a touch of this or that and go heavy on something else. This recipe is the ratios that I love – add, subtract…use a stronger or milder cinnamon – whatever makes you happy in your heart!

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For the standard, Libby’s-everybody-loves-it pumpkin pie recipe (two pie-big can) I use 3 1/2 teaspoons of the mix.

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12 teaspoons China Cassia cinnamon (this is my fave, but any will work)

6 teaspoons ground ginger

3 teaspoons cloves

1/4 teaspoon allspice

1/4 rounded teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (makes a huge difference!)

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Combine all and store in an airtight container. Keeps at least six months.

ARTICHOKE-SPINACH DIP-STUFFED MUSHROOMS – This is one of my ALL time favorite things to eat – and I don’t really care for mushrooms. Leftover dip can be baked and served with whole grain tortilla chips.

BAKED SANTE FE BEAN DIP – A friend’s boys call this “crack” dip…it’s always good and one of the first things to disappear. A big bowl of Frito’s Scoops for the carb-lovers, and on a plate with a pile of avocados and sour cream stirred in for us. WOW.